Victory in the Aleutians. An Analysis of Jointlessness.
Abstract
This essay analyzes the Aleutian campaign of 1942-43. What has been appropriately named the Forgotten War; this conflict was characterized by farces conducting combat operations and logistic sustainment over vast distances and in the most austere environmental conditions. The Aleutians were strategically important as they were the only pieces of American soil occupied by the enemy during WW2. Additionally, they sat astride vital sea lines of communications between the United States and the Far East. Although this conflict was of minor importance within the grand strategy of the Pacific theater, it has applicability to today's joint operations. The Aleutian campaign was the first truly joint operation of WW2,and even though it occurred over fifty years ago, it still offers relevant lessons to today's operational commander. Examination of the failure of commanders to ensure unity of effort and proper utilization of joint training, intelligence and logistics will prove beneficial to the joint commander of the future, who will likely find himself in an undeveloped region trying to integrate unfamiliar forces with insufficient support. (AN)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 13, 1994
- Accession Number
- ADA293336
Entities
People
- Mark C. Mohr
Organizations
- Naval War College